Description

Channeling comfort.

The Lite 209 falls into Selle SMP's category of saddles addressing
pressure at the perineum region, as it relies on the Italian brand's
innovative shape to keep you comfortable, supported, and pressure-free
while out racing, training, or simply riding.

Similar to the all-rounder Stratos, the Lite 209 is best suited for
cyclists with average-width pelvises, as it features a moderate profile
and an average amount of padding. At the nose, there's the
characteristic "beak" shape designed to provide a flat base while
sitting, without excessive pressure on the genital area. SMP's
pronounced central channel was also incorporated, which further reduces
pressure on the pudendal nerve and surrounding soft tissue. The back of
the saddle is raised for an enhanced seated pedaling position, where
body weight is divided between the rear and lower part of the ischial
tuberosity region. This shape also helps reduce overall pressure on the
coccyx while riding over rough surfaces.

The saddle's foam elastomer padding gets wrapped in leather for the
black version and a durable Lorica microfiber in the colored version.
Its durable nylon/carbon composite shell rides on stainless steel rails,
ensuring a secure perch that'll hold up for both road and mountain
applications.

The Selle SMP Lite 209 is available in one size (273 x 139mm) and in
the colors Black, Red, and White. It is handmade in Italy and has a
claimed weight of 310 grams.

Comment on Roland B.'s review:

Love it!

Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer

This saddle is based on the same chassis as the Avant, made for the exceptionally wide pelvis. Because it has less padding it is narrower both front and rear. Still moderately padded by SMP standards. It is neither Lite nor does it weigh 209 grams. They make a carbon railed version not carried by CC that doesn't weigh 209 grams either. That said it fits me and my 136 mm sit bones really well. The tilted nose is just right when on the rivet. I don't notice the cutout which is a good thing. It tends to retain its width and not slope as aggressively as the SMP Pro which is probably why it fit me better despite my measurements. Most importantly the rails are anchored really well suggesting it will be a long lasting saddle. If you are a weight weenie this is not your perch, but SMP seems to be the choice of my local bike fitter and other more well know gurus such as Steve Hogg mentioned below.

Comment on Kenneth L.'s review:

My Solution

Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer

I've tried numerous saddles, probably upwards of 10-15 from the top saddle companies. They would all be alright until mile 15+, then I had issues getting comfortable. Once that time came, I'd sit and try and move back and forth on the saddle, trying to find the sweet spot. It made me start to hate road bikes, since I came from BMX and mountain.

Then came the Lite 209. This saddle was the answer to everything I was looking for. I've put hundreds of miles on mine, and it fits like a glove. I don't even notice it at all anymore. My rides use to be focused on my sit bones and the discomfort there, wiggling around for those few minutes of comfort again. With this saddle, that's all gone. The unique design allows me to sit in the same spot effortlessly, and it's always in the sweet spot of the saddle.

Hands down the best saddle I've ever ridden. It's a little more than some of the other options I've tried, but the health and comfort benefits of it are well worth the price.

Comment on Brian 's review:

Unique

Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer

First, gentlemen, it is really important to protect the nerves and soft tissue around the perineum while riding 2-3 (or more) hours in the saddle. Numbness and urological problems can develop if the perineum (including the pudental nerve) is compressed for long periods of time (ouch!); which is what happens when roadies ride in the typical inclined forward position. Hence, "pressure relief channel" saddles such as the Selle SMP line of saddles.

Saddle choice is extremely personal. Variables such as specific physiology (sit bone width), position on the bike, fitness level, and BMI result in "no size or model fits everyone."

So, SMP makes a lot of models. Check out the SMP website (or google Steve Hogg) for fit and correct model info. It seems the "Dynamic" or the "Lite 209" (inexplicable name) are the models to buy for most fit male riders of average pelvis width.

*Important note: Setting up this saddle properly on your bike (nose down 2-5% usually) is essential to this saddle working properly. So check out the SMP website (or google Steve Hogg fitting) for proper set-up advice.

Comment on Jonny Heinken's review:

Average ride time is based on Strava activity over the last 3 months. Give your reviews credibility by connecting your account.

Solved the problem

Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer

Any ride longer than an hour or so was torture on the stock saddle that came with my bike. After installing the Lite 209, most of the discomfort is gone. I'm still trying to get the positioning dialled in as the saddle shape is so unique. I was worried about ordering the right SMP saddle as they have so many models with different widths and padding. I'm 6'1", 200lbs and I think I got it right for myself with this model. Quality and materials are top notch...what should be expected at this price level.